DB8 Speech & Debate Academy
Unit 4 · Lesson 1 3 min

Structure & Organization 1

The Value is the moral goal you want the judge to maximize. Justice, autonomy, morality, security.

Pick something measurable

'Happiness' is too vague. 'Individual autonomy' is sharper — judges can actually test it.

Value ≠ topic

If the topic is healthcare, your Value isn't 'healthcare.' It's something like 'human dignity' or 'societal welfare.'

Quick Check
  1. 1. A Value is:

Answer all 1 to check.

Takeaway

The Value sets the moral target. Pick something concrete enough to argue.